Clarence "Tom" Thomas Thornburg

Tom was born January 31, 1939, in Hickory to the late Clarence and Arlee Thornburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Estelle (Esther) Miller Thornburg and nephew, Bradley Sherrill. Those left to cherish his memory are his sister, Mary Ann Sherrill (Coite); brother, Charles Thornburg (Jan); nephews Jeffrey Thornburg (Jana), Brian Thornburg (Allison), Phillip Sherrill (Jodi), Kevin Sherrill (Tonya) and Douglas Sherrill (Wendy).

Tom was an avid outdoorsman. His love for fishing prompted him to sponsor and (along with the help of friends) catch the fish for the annual fish fry at his church, Westview United Methodist. This tradition was carried on for as long as he was able. He was a veteran who proudly served his country in the United States Army. He owned and operated Tom’s Auto Parts and made many lifelong friends as he provided numerous local garages with needed supplies. He will be sorely missed.

Tom will lie in state Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at Hickory Funeral Home.

There will be a private graveside service at Catawba Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Westview United Methodist Church, 1309 1st Ave SW, Hickory, NC, 28602.

Arrangements are with Hickory Funeral Home.